From its inception, the Prize has aimed to recognise and make known the best works transforming public space in Europe. Well aware of the ambiguities inherent in the notion of public space, this is the only prize in Europe which recognises and promotes a space that is both public (open and of universal access) and urban. The Prize is therefore different from other initiatives focused on the figure of the architect, and awards given for landscaping projects, since it draws attention to the relational and civic nature of typically urban space.

The Prize, which is honorific, has several distinguishing features. First, it is conceded to both the architect and the council, the branch of public administration or promoter which is responsible for bringing about the intervention. Second, the Prize does not single out - at least exclusively or as a priority - large-scale urban planning interventions but is also attentive to great or small of what might be called urban surgery which aim, above all, to improve the life of citizens. Third, the Prize is distinctive in its European focus. Preserving and highlighting local particularities, it is concerned to pay tribute to the shared features of urban planning interventions all around Europe in order to defend and promote a certain European idea of city. The Prize represents one part of the CCCB's general framework of permanent multidisciplinary reflection on the city and public space.